MANILA – The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) is set to lodge a new protest against China over what it described as “dangerous maneuvers” in Scarborough Shoal, which a Filipino civilian vessel evaded but ultimately led to a collision between two Chinese vessels.

Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro on Tuesday said the DFA is handling the matter “carefully,” while reiterating Manila’s openness to hold diplomatic dialogue with Beijing.

“This is a situation whereby we have to be more careful and we still go back to the process whereby diplomatic dialogue and discussions will be best for the situation,” she said, citing two maritime conventions—the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGS) and the Safety of Life at Sea Convention (SOLAS)—that both sides should observe.

Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr., meanwhile, dismissed Beijing’s claim that Manila was at fault in the latest flare-up. “They can say what they want. But I mean, who’s more credible at the end of the day?” he said. “I’m already tired of contradicting and I don’t want to answer a blatant lie and glorify it.”

US Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson also condemned the Chinese actions, calling them “reckless” and directed against the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) vessel.

The incident occurred Monday morning off Bajo de Masinloc, when Chinese Coast Guard ship 3104 chased BRP Suluan at high speed. The PLAN ship 164 later collided with the CCG vessel, sustaining significant damage. The PCG offered assistance, including medical aid and towing the damaged ship out of the area. (Joyce Rocamora/PNA)